Microsoft updates business software roadmap

Microsoft on Wednesday reiterated the release schedule for its Microsoft Business Solutions unit, which focuses on software that helps small and midsize businesses manage accounting and other functions. The unit is made up of a number of separate acquisitions, which the company has largely maintained as separate product divisions. The unit has yet to be profitable, though, and the company pared some jobs earlier this month.

Microsoft Great Plains 8.0 is scheduled to be available beginning in June. Microsoft Solomon 6.0 is scheduled to be available beginning in July, with Microsoft Navision 4.0 scheduled for later this year and Microsoft Axapta 4.0 slated for next year. "Our strategy and commitment is to continue investing our research and development efforts in our four ERP solutions to ensure that customers have a choice," said Microsoft corporate VP Satya Nadella.